Ricoh GRD IV Digital Compact Camera
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* 3 inch LCD screen
* Fixed focal lens 28mm F/1.9
* RAW shooting
* 1/1.7 inch sensor
Ricoh's GRD IV is one of only a handful digital compact cameras that feature a large 1/7 inch sensor.
It now has a RAW shooting option - and further dazzles with a crystal clear LCD screen.
This camera has the reflexes of a professional photographer
Hybrid autofocus system.
The GR DIGITAL IV employs a hybrid autofocus system that combines an external auto focus with a conventional contrast autofocus system. It is newly equipped with an external autofocus sensor developed in-house that allows for high-speed, high-precision distance calculations for up to 190 points. The camera needs as little as 0.2 seconds for the autofocus to adjust, approximately half the time for the GR DIGITAL III. The scan area for contrast autofocusing is limited so the external autofocus sensor can adjust the focus even if you do not half-press the shutter-release button, allowing for more rapid focus adjustments than previous models. Improvements to the algorithm have increased the speed - as much as doubled it - even for macro autofocusing that uses only the contrast autofocus system.
RICOH's original quick snap mode, enhanced by external autofocus.
We have added a Snap mode in which you set the focus at a preset distance, so you can take photos with a significantly shorter time lag. One of the focus distances you can choose from on the GR DIGITAL IV is Auto. This permits very fast, very precise focus adjustments made by the external autofocus sensor alone. You can take photos without having to worry about the distance to the subject. Using Full Press Snap, the camera rapidly calculates the distance using the hybrid autofocus if you pause with the shutter-release button pressed halfway, and using only the external autofocus if the shutter release is pressed all the way down in one motion. High-precision focusing has been added to the GR's characteristic quick shooting functionality. * The focus distances that can be chosen with Snap and Full Press Snap are Auto, 1 m, 1.5 m, 2.5 m, 5 m, and 8.
New function: AF Continuous shooting.
While the shutter-release button is pressed, the camera can take a series of photos while adjusting its focus on the subject using the external autofocus. The camera also still provides set-focus continuous shooting, S-Cont (stream continuous) shooting, and M-Cont (memory-reversal continuous) shooting.
Improved performance in dark scenes. Blur correction feature.
The first model in the GR DIGITAL line equipped with an image sensor shift image stabilization feature. Coupled with a bright F1.9 lens, this camera performs even better than previous models under dark conditions. The stabilization effect amounts to as much as 3.2 steps* calculated in terms of shutter speed.
Flexible ISO sensitivity settings.
The highest possible ISO setting is 3200 (the maximum for the GR DIGITAL III was 1600); the EV can be set in steps of 1 EV or 1/3 EV. Furthermore, using ISO Auto Hi, in addition to setting an upper limit of ISO sensitivity, you can now also set shutter speeds where the ISO sensitivity changes. For example, if the shutter speed is set to 1/60, the camera will maintain that speed as it adjusts ISO sensitivity. This makes it easy to control the camera to match what you want, like when you want to use a fast shutter speed so the subject will not be blurry.
New image monitor with a much higher maximal brightness.
The maximum brightness of the new image monitor has been increased about 1.7 times over that of the GR DIGITAL III; visibility outdoors accordingly has been greatly improved. If the brightness controller is set to Auto, the brightness of the image monitor will adjust automatically in accordance with the brightness of the subject. The size is an easily viewed 3-inch screen (approximately 1.23 million-dot* VGA). The wide viewing angle allows for viewing from various directions. In addition, the distance information calculated by the external autofocus sensor can now be displayed as necessary, helping to improve convenience and comfort level.
* White pixels were added to RGB to attain approximately1.23 million dots.
The GR lens 28 mm/F1.9.
The camera is outfitted with the high resolution, high contrast, low distortion GR Lens 28 mm/F1.9. The lens has a large aperture, and corrects aberrations of all types without compromise using Ricoh-developed optics design. Thanks to a 6-group, 8-element lens composition and three special low-dispersion lens elements, high resolution and high contrast are realized while chromatic aberration is suppressed. Furthermore, with the two high-precision, aspherical lens elements, there is hardly any distortion that is noticeable. The optimized coating tamps down on ghosts from backlights and point light sources. The beauties of the Bokeh and of the beams of light that the 7-blade diaphragm produces are also exceptional. * The focal length is the corresponding value for a 35-mm camera.
New image processor.
With the newly-developed image processing engine, the GR ENGINE IV, color noise reductions when taking high-sensitivity photographs have been achieved. The Auto and Multi-P AUTO algorithms for white balance have also been improved, so that the effects of lighting conditions and subject color are controlled, helping to stabilize and reproduce more favorable colors. Since we also tuned up the color balance, even rather casual subjects like white clouds in a blue sky are rendered more impressively, with rich colors. Furthermore, the image processing algorithm has been optimized and improvements have been made in the optical filter. The quality of resolution has been improved so it vividly renders subjects in great detail.
A high-sensitivity 10 megapixel CCD.
We used a low-noise, wide dynamic range 1/1.7-inch CCD with 10 effective megapixels. It renders even low-light settings naturally and keeps roughness in control. Shadowed areas are cleanly firmed up, and it also excels at reproducing delicate shading. You can be flexible the way you would expect to with a GR DIGITAL in the photos you take by taking advantage of its functionality to, for example, take handheld snapshots using high ISO sensitivities at night or indoors.
Great improvements to prevent over and under exposure.
Ricoh's image processing technology and pixel interpolation algorithms are used to control overexposure. By comparing pixel outputs and then predicting and interpolating image data in the overexposed area, the dynamic range has been expanded by as much as +1 EV. We have also added a new Dynamic Range Compensation feature that serves to expand dynamic range. It improves the richness and smoothness of gradations for everything from highlights to dark sections.
Enhanced auto-bracket functions.
In addition to the existing settings for exposure and white balance, the camera now includes settings for Contrast Bracket and Dynamic Range Compensation Bracket as well as an Image Setting Bracket feature that allows you to record a sequence of three shots with two image settings of your choice. This eliminates the need to bother with changing photo settings manually. You can continue to take photographs with comfort, just concentrating on the subject. A new scene mode for capturing star trails against a landscape.
Interval composite mode added to the list of scene modes.
Featuring two new modes. Enhanced image setting modes. Two new modes have been added to Image Settings*. The first is Positive Film, which will recall a famous type of film used in the past. The second is Bleach Bypass, with which you can create low chroma, high contrast silvered images. The camera also has standard settings such as High Contrast B & W which gives images the flavor of dramatic monochrome prints and Cross Process for creating unique color combinations. You can apply these image settings regardless of the exposure control mode in use. The breadth of your creations will expand. * Vivid, Standard, B & W, B & W (TE), Setting 1/Setting 2, High Contrast B & W, Cross Process, Positive Film, Bleach Bypass
Multiple exposure shooting.
A new feature with this model is the ability to combine up to 5 photos. Have fun getting creative with your photos by creating drama through combining shots of different scenes into a single image. You can adjust the settings in detail as necessary, such as automatically adjusting the amount of exposure in accordance with the number of snaps, saving each image separately before combining, and saving images when combining. You can also use the Retake shot option immediately after you take a photo, allowing you to get the photo you imaged with ease.
Bulb shooting available with exposure control modes.
The exposure control modes are Auto, P (program shift), A (aperture priority), M (manual exposure), and S (shutter priority). Maximum set exposure speed is 1/2000 of a second. With the GR DIGITAL IV, it is now also possible to set B (bulb) and T (time) for M mode,* giving you more freedom in making your exposure settings. When set to B, exposure continues while the shutter-release button is pressed. When set to T, exposure begins and ends when the shutter-release button is pressed.
* Can also be operated using cable switch CA-2 (optional).
* The time can be set for a maximum length of 180 seconds.
High-quality macro mode.
Minimum shooting distance of approximately 1 cm. You can photograph an approximately 26 × 19 mm area to fill the screen. When using Macro Mode, some of the lens groups that do not move during normal focusing move to a specific position for near-distance photography. This is an original, image quality priority feature that corrects field curvature during near-distance photography. In Macro Mode, thanks to improvements in the algorithm, the autofocusing speed has been cut by up to half compared to the GR DIGITAL III. Focusing is more pleasant than ever.
Free image settings and level corrections.
The range for making adjustments to contrast, sharpness, and so forth for each image setting has been increased (to 9 steps). This allows you more freedom than ever in creating your works. In Playback mode, Level Compensation enables adjusting the brightness and contrast of the photos you have taken in the camera itself. Use Auto to leave it up to the camera to make minute adjustments. By setting it to Manual, you can work with a histogram to adjust the brightness and contrast immediately and freely.
A small and sophisticated internal flash.
The internal flash is a manually operated pop-up type. The dimming range is approximately 20 cm to 3.0 m (ISO Auto). It has a full range of modes, including Auto, Flash Synchro., and Manual Flash. You can also adjust the shade and shadow balance more finely using Flash Compensation (-2.0 to +2.0 EV) and Manual Flash (12 steps, from Full to 1/64). For the synchronization timing, you can choose either the normal [1st Curtain] setting or the [2nd Curtain] setting that can render the light traces of moving objects naturally.
Four-mode aspect ratio settings.
Now a 16:9 aspect ratio is available in addition to the existing 4:3, 3:2, and 1:1 settings. This is useful for giving a photo an expression with a sense of width. Using this, you can also display and enjoy photos with a ratio matched to the screen when playing them back on high-definition-capable computer screens and televisions.
New electronic level for horizonal and of roll and pitch direction.
The electronic level has evolved, now enabling the camera to detect roll and pitch direction along with the traditional horizon direction. This is useful for scenes in which there is no standard horizon line such as natural landscapes or nightscapes. Knowing the roll and pitch direction is effective in helping to take photos with faithful proportions.
Fn button pair setting, to enable quick changes to the save feature.
The camera has two Fn (Function) buttons. Frequently used features can be assigned to the two Fn buttons so they can be accessed with one push. Furthermore, you can create up to 4 sets with the Fn Button Pair Setting (combining features that are assigned to Fn1/Fn2), and can switch between them easily. Just turn the up-down dial while pressing the ? key. You can quickly switch to a feature without performing any menu operations. My Setting data can be saved to an SD memory card. With My Setting, you can save your favorite camera settings. The number of settings that can be saved to the My Settings Box on the camera has been increased from the 6 on previous models to 12. Furthermore, you can save up to 6 types of settings to an SD memory card. The ease of use and the enjoyment will be increased when you share My Setting data among users. * Up to 3 sets of saved My Setting data can be assigned to the mode dial (MY 1 to MY 3).
Saving RAW only now available.
We expanded the RAW/JPEG Setting to make it possible to save RAW only. This is optimal for photographers whose workflows include finishing up a photo on the PC after shooting. Since JPEG files are not saved at the same time, it is useful for increasing the number of photos that can be saved to a memory card and maximizing the camera's response.
Calendar display.
We added a calendar display to the playback mode. When you choose a date, the first photo taken that day is displayed. This can improve the efficiency of photo management, allowing you to search for images based on your schedule.
LCD Auto dim feature, to reduce the burden on your battery.
The camera has a power conservation feature that automatically reduces the brightness of the image monitor. We gave a lot of thought to power conservation.
Eye-Fi card synching feature.
Compatible with the Eye-Fi card, an SD memory card that is Wi-Fi ready. When the Eye-Fi card is in use, an icon indicating the transmission status will be displayed.
* The connectivity feature can be turned On or Off on the menu.
* For details regarding the Eye-Fi card, please refer to the Eye-Fi website at
* Eye-Fi cards are approved for use in the country of purchase only
The perfected GR design for going after every instant
'Fits in your pocket.' 'You can hold it steady even with just one hand.' The GR DIGITAL IV supplies many features as it carries on a GR design that has earned raves from customers. Both the shape that fits comfortably in the hand and the superbly balanced GR grip remain unchanged in the new model. It produces a sense of security for those people who have grown accustomed to past GR DIGITAL cameras and the feeling of a comfortable hold for new users.
Hybrid autofocus system.
The GR DIGITAL IV employs a hybrid autofocus system that combines an external auto focus with a conventional contrast autofocus system. It is newly equipped with an external autofocus sensor developed in-house that allows for high-speed, high-precision distance calculations for up to 190 points. The camera needs as little as 0.2 seconds for the autofocus to adjust, approximately half the time for the GR DIGITAL III. The scan area for contrast autofocusing is limited so the external autofocus sensor can adjust the focus even if you do not half-press the shutter-release button, allowing for more rapid focus adjustments than previous models. Improvements to the algorithm have increased the speed - as much as doubled it - even for macro autofocusing that uses only the contrast autofocus system.
RICOH's original quick snap mode, enhanced by external autofocus.
We have added a Snap mode in which you set the focus at a preset distance, so you can take photos with a significantly shorter time lag. One of the focus distances you can choose from on the GR DIGITAL IV is Auto. This permits very fast, very precise focus adjustments made by the external autofocus sensor alone. You can take photos without having to worry about the distance to the subject. Using Full Press Snap, the camera rapidly calculates the distance using the hybrid autofocus if you pause with the shutter-release button pressed halfway, and using only the external autofocus if the shutter release is pressed all the way down in one motion. High-precision focusing has been added to the GR's characteristic quick shooting functionality. * The focus distances that can be chosen with Snap and Full Press Snap are Auto, 1 m, 1.5 m, 2.5 m, 5 m, and 8.
New function: AF Continuous shooting.
While the shutter-release button is pressed, the camera can take a series of photos while adjusting its focus on the subject using the external autofocus. The camera also still provides set-focus continuous shooting, S-Cont (stream continuous) shooting, and M-Cont (memory-reversal continuous) shooting.
Improved performance in dark scenes. Blur correction feature.
The first model in the GR DIGITAL line equipped with an image sensor shift image stabilization feature. Coupled with a bright F1.9 lens, this camera performs even better than previous models under dark conditions. The stabilization effect amounts to as much as 3.2 steps* calculated in terms of shutter speed.
Flexible ISO sensitivity settings.
The highest possible ISO setting is 3200 (the maximum for the GR DIGITAL III was 1600); the EV can be set in steps of 1 EV or 1/3 EV. Furthermore, using ISO Auto Hi, in addition to setting an upper limit of ISO sensitivity, you can now also set shutter speeds where the ISO sensitivity changes. For example, if the shutter speed is set to 1/60, the camera will maintain that speed as it adjusts ISO sensitivity. This makes it easy to control the camera to match what you want, like when you want to use a fast shutter speed so the subject will not be blurry.
New image monitor with a much higher maximal brightness.
The maximum brightness of the new image monitor has been increased about 1.7 times over that of the GR DIGITAL III; visibility outdoors accordingly has been greatly improved. If the brightness controller is set to Auto, the brightness of the image monitor will adjust automatically in accordance with the brightness of the subject. The size is an easily viewed 3-inch screen (approximately 1.23 million-dot* VGA). The wide viewing angle allows for viewing from various directions. In addition, the distance information calculated by the external autofocus sensor can now be displayed as necessary, helping to improve convenience and comfort level.
* White pixels were added to RGB to attain approximately1.23 million dots.
The GR lens 28 mm/F1.9.
The camera is outfitted with the high resolution, high contrast, low distortion GR Lens 28 mm/F1.9. The lens has a large aperture, and corrects aberrations of all types without compromise using Ricoh-developed optics design. Thanks to a 6-group, 8-element lens composition and three special low-dispersion lens elements, high resolution and high contrast are realized while chromatic aberration is suppressed. Furthermore, with the two high-precision, aspherical lens elements, there is hardly any distortion that is noticeable. The optimized coating tamps down on ghosts from backlights and point light sources. The beauties of the Bokeh and of the beams of light that the 7-blade diaphragm produces are also exceptional. * The focal length is the corresponding value for a 35-mm camera.
New image processor.
With the newly-developed image processing engine, the GR ENGINE IV, color noise reductions when taking high-sensitivity photographs have been achieved. The Auto and Multi-P AUTO algorithms for white balance have also been improved, so that the effects of lighting conditions and subject color are controlled, helping to stabilize and reproduce more favorable colors. Since we also tuned up the color balance, even rather casual subjects like white clouds in a blue sky are rendered more impressively, with rich colors. Furthermore, the image processing algorithm has been optimized and improvements have been made in the optical filter. The quality of resolution has been improved so it vividly renders subjects in great detail.
A high-sensitivity 10 megapixel CCD.
We used a low-noise, wide dynamic range 1/1.7-inch CCD with 10 effective megapixels. It renders even low-light settings naturally and keeps roughness in control. Shadowed areas are cleanly firmed up, and it also excels at reproducing delicate shading. You can be flexible the way you would expect to with a GR DIGITAL in the photos you take by taking advantage of its functionality to, for example, take handheld snapshots using high ISO sensitivities at night or indoors.
Great improvements to prevent over and under exposure.
Ricoh's image processing technology and pixel interpolation algorithms are used to control overexposure. By comparing pixel outputs and then predicting and interpolating image data in the overexposed area, the dynamic range has been expanded by as much as +1 EV. We have also added a new Dynamic Range Compensation feature that serves to expand dynamic range. It improves the richness and smoothness of gradations for everything from highlights to dark sections.
Enhanced auto-bracket functions.
In addition to the existing settings for exposure and white balance, the camera now includes settings for Contrast Bracket and Dynamic Range Compensation Bracket as well as an Image Setting Bracket feature that allows you to record a sequence of three shots with two image settings of your choice. This eliminates the need to bother with changing photo settings manually. You can continue to take photographs with comfort, just concentrating on the subject. A new scene mode for capturing star trails against a landscape.
Interval composite mode added to the list of scene modes.
Featuring two new modes. Enhanced image setting modes. Two new modes have been added to Image Settings*. The first is Positive Film, which will recall a famous type of film used in the past. The second is Bleach Bypass, with which you can create low chroma, high contrast silvered images. The camera also has standard settings such as High Contrast B & W which gives images the flavor of dramatic monochrome prints and Cross Process for creating unique color combinations. You can apply these image settings regardless of the exposure control mode in use. The breadth of your creations will expand. * Vivid, Standard, B & W, B & W (TE), Setting 1/Setting 2, High Contrast B & W, Cross Process, Positive Film, Bleach Bypass
Multiple exposure shooting.
A new feature with this model is the ability to combine up to 5 photos. Have fun getting creative with your photos by creating drama through combining shots of different scenes into a single image. You can adjust the settings in detail as necessary, such as automatically adjusting the amount of exposure in accordance with the number of snaps, saving each image separately before combining, and saving images when combining. You can also use the Retake shot option immediately after you take a photo, allowing you to get the photo you imaged with ease.
Bulb shooting available with exposure control modes.
The exposure control modes are Auto, P (program shift), A (aperture priority), M (manual exposure), and S (shutter priority). Maximum set exposure speed is 1/2000 of a second. With the GR DIGITAL IV, it is now also possible to set B (bulb) and T (time) for M mode,* giving you more freedom in making your exposure settings. When set to B, exposure continues while the shutter-release button is pressed. When set to T, exposure begins and ends when the shutter-release button is pressed.
* Can also be operated using cable switch CA-2 (optional).
* The time can be set for a maximum length of 180 seconds.
High-quality macro mode.
Minimum shooting distance of approximately 1 cm. You can photograph an approximately 26 × 19 mm area to fill the screen. When using Macro Mode, some of the lens groups that do not move during normal focusing move to a specific position for near-distance photography. This is an original, image quality priority feature that corrects field curvature during near-distance photography. In Macro Mode, thanks to improvements in the algorithm, the autofocusing speed has been cut by up to half compared to the GR DIGITAL III. Focusing is more pleasant than ever.
Free image settings and level corrections.
The range for making adjustments to contrast, sharpness, and so forth for each image setting has been increased (to 9 steps). This allows you more freedom than ever in creating your works. In Playback mode, Level Compensation enables adjusting the brightness and contrast of the photos you have taken in the camera itself. Use Auto to leave it up to the camera to make minute adjustments. By setting it to Manual, you can work with a histogram to adjust the brightness and contrast immediately and freely.
A small and sophisticated internal flash.
The internal flash is a manually operated pop-up type. The dimming range is approximately 20 cm to 3.0 m (ISO Auto). It has a full range of modes, including Auto, Flash Synchro., and Manual Flash. You can also adjust the shade and shadow balance more finely using Flash Compensation (-2.0 to +2.0 EV) and Manual Flash (12 steps, from Full to 1/64). For the synchronization timing, you can choose either the normal [1st Curtain] setting or the [2nd Curtain] setting that can render the light traces of moving objects naturally.
Four-mode aspect ratio settings.
Now a 16:9 aspect ratio is available in addition to the existing 4:3, 3:2, and 1:1 settings. This is useful for giving a photo an expression with a sense of width. Using this, you can also display and enjoy photos with a ratio matched to the screen when playing them back on high-definition-capable computer screens and televisions.
New electronic level for horizonal and of roll and pitch direction.
The electronic level has evolved, now enabling the camera to detect roll and pitch direction along with the traditional horizon direction. This is useful for scenes in which there is no standard horizon line such as natural landscapes or nightscapes. Knowing the roll and pitch direction is effective in helping to take photos with faithful proportions.
Fn button pair setting, to enable quick changes to the save feature.
The camera has two Fn (Function) buttons. Frequently used features can be assigned to the two Fn buttons so they can be accessed with one push. Furthermore, you can create up to 4 sets with the Fn Button Pair Setting (combining features that are assigned to Fn1/Fn2), and can switch between them easily. Just turn the up-down dial while pressing the ? key. You can quickly switch to a feature without performing any menu operations. My Setting data can be saved to an SD memory card. With My Setting, you can save your favorite camera settings. The number of settings that can be saved to the My Settings Box on the camera has been increased from the 6 on previous models to 12. Furthermore, you can save up to 6 types of settings to an SD memory card. The ease of use and the enjoyment will be increased when you share My Setting data among users. * Up to 3 sets of saved My Setting data can be assigned to the mode dial (MY 1 to MY 3).
Saving RAW only now available.
We expanded the RAW/JPEG Setting to make it possible to save RAW only. This is optimal for photographers whose workflows include finishing up a photo on the PC after shooting. Since JPEG files are not saved at the same time, it is useful for increasing the number of photos that can be saved to a memory card and maximizing the camera's response.
Calendar display.
We added a calendar display to the playback mode. When you choose a date, the first photo taken that day is displayed. This can improve the efficiency of photo management, allowing you to search for images based on your schedule.
LCD Auto dim feature, to reduce the burden on your battery.
The camera has a power conservation feature that automatically reduces the brightness of the image monitor. We gave a lot of thought to power conservation.
Eye-Fi card synching feature.
Compatible with the Eye-Fi card, an SD memory card that is Wi-Fi ready. When the Eye-Fi card is in use, an icon indicating the transmission status will be displayed.
* The connectivity feature can be turned On or Off on the menu.
* For details regarding the Eye-Fi card, please refer to the Eye-Fi website at
* Eye-Fi cards are approved for use in the country of purchase only
The perfected GR design for going after every instant
'Fits in your pocket.' 'You can hold it steady even with just one hand.' The GR DIGITAL IV supplies many features as it carries on a GR design that has earned raves from customers. Both the shape that fits comfortably in the hand and the superbly balanced GR grip remain unchanged in the new model. It produces a sense of security for those people who have grown accustomed to past GR DIGITAL cameras and the feeling of a comfortable hold for new users.
10MP, Fixed f1.9 experienced photographer's travel mate
Price: £449.99
UK delivery available from £7.99
Delivery: Default
Product: 32645
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